I’ll fall apart without art – Vivian Ifionu

Vivian Onyinye Ifionu is a textile artist and art entrepreneur. The graduate of Fine and Applied Arts from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, specialises in textile, batik, weaving, tie & dye, and thread painting. In this interview, she speaks on her plight as an artist in Nigeria, among other things.

How would you describe your journey so far as an artist?

The journey has not been easy. It takes hard work and passion. If not, one can give up. Art being what I love, I put in my best at all times. I can sacrifice my sleep. So far, art has been and is still the best thing that has happened to me. Beyond being a tool of aesthetics, I use it to communicate. It helps me get a better perspective on things and a deeper understanding of the circumstances of life. Art speaks to me as the author or those that come across my works. The journey, though a tough one, has been a challenge I cherish and one that I wholly immerse myself into. 

What is it about art that thrills you?

Art has become some sort of an invisible clock planted in my subconscious. The fact that it speaks to me makes it a powerful tool of communication that constantly makes me return to it.

I am able to wake up and go back to art because it calls me. When I finish a piece, there is a burning desire to get on with another one. It makes me think less, gives me reason and a clear understanding to worry less. I essentially see it as my companion. 

Are you fulfilled considering all that you are into?

Art never stops. I want to go beyond thread painting because I believe I can do more than that. Though I haven’t discovered any new medium to use yet, I am thinking of coming up with something. 

Also, technology gives room to experiment with novel ideas. I am not really fulfilled yet as I believe there is so much to achieve. 

When is it a “good day” for you as an artist?

Each day I complete an art piece, not just completing it, but being able to depict ideas the way I want. Because sometimes I feel unsatisfied with my works because I could not express myself exactly the way I wanted. A good day to me is an accomplished art piece.

Which is most challenging among what you do?

It is thread art. Everything about thread work is challenging: the mixing of colours, the placement, maintaining the neatness without messing up the work. It requires